Ford 800 and 900 series fluid changes (types?)

[jet_skier01]

I recently picked up both a 900 series and a 800 series Ford tractors. The maintenance records on the tractors were a little in question so I would like to change the fluids - engine oil, transmission fluid, rear axel fluid and hydraulic system fluid in both tractors. What are the best fluids that I should use in these tractors? I'm looking for information on brands and viscosities that people have found out to be the best through experience. I live in the Upper Penninsula of Michigan. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 

[awhtx]

I use a UTF that meets Ford 134D specs in the trans, hydraulics and rear axles of my 851, 861D, 971 and 5000D. I use 15w-40 oil that meets diesel specs in the engines of all of them.
 

[Dean]

JS:

I agree with AWH on both engine oil and trans-hydraulic fluid.

Do not forget to change the oil in the front pedestal and final drives on the 9xx tractor. I use 85W140 in both. It is likely that the front pedestal has a quart or so of water beneath the oil.

Dean
 

[MarkB_MI]

Don't forget the final drives and steering pedestal of the 900. I run 80W-90 in all three of those reservoirs, but New Holland 134 in the transmission, hydraulics and rear end.

To check the steering pedestal oil level, there's a plug almost directly under the grill. Take it out, then use the hydraulic reservoir dipstick to check the level. (That's why the dipstick has "Pedestal" markings on one side.) It's important to get the oil in the pedestal changed, because the reservoir tends to collect water than can freeze and cause problems. In the case of my tractor I had to heat the drain plug with an acetylene torch, then it came right out.

You'll find a lot of discussion here about whether to use gear oil or UTF in the transmission and rear end. Up where you're at, there's no way I would run gear oil. The trans will shift smoother with the thinner oil. Also, there's a risk of gear oil getting past seals to contaminate the hydraulics: not good in subzero weather.

For engine oil, I've found that 15W-40 is a bit too stiff once you get below zero F. I'm in SE Michigan, and have no problem down to at least ten below using 10W-30. You might want to consider a synthetic.
 

[jet_skier01]

Thanks for the replies so far but I guess I should have added a couple more specifics. Both of the engines are gas and the 900 has been converted to a wide front so no more pedestal. Thanks again.
 

[awhtx]

You can use a diesel rated oil in a gas engine.
And how do you steer the 900 if it doesn't have a pedestal? The drag link from the steering box connects to a short arm that is attached to a shaft that goes into the pedestal.